Psychoanalysis and the Wisdom of Ecclesiastes

Paul Marcus is a training and supervisory analyst at the National Psychological Association for Psychoanalysis in New York City and co-chairperson of the discussion group Psychoanalysis and Spirituality at the American Psychoanalytic Association. He is the author/editor of 25 books including The Spiritual Resistance of Rabbi Leo Baeck: Psychoanalysis and Religion (Routledge). He is currently the editor of Psychoanalytic Review.

• 1. Introduction: A Time to Heal2. Koheleth’s General Worldview3. Summary of Ecclesiastes4. The Futility of Wisdom5. The Futility of Hedonism6. The Futility of Work7. The Futility of Love8. Implications for Psychoanalysis

“Paul Marcus brings Ecclesiastes and psychoanalysis together in mutually fruitful ways. He brings out a "double structure" in Ecclesiastes characterized by profound ambivalence and ambiguity that creatively interacts with psychoanalysis in co-nourishing ways. Whether it is the psychology of wisdom, hedonism, work or love, Marcus opens significant experiential possibilities that add to our sense of being, inviting deep study and amplification.” - Michael Eigen, Ph.D., Author, Contact with the Depths, Faith, and Kabbalah and Psychoanalysis“This original study takes the reader through the book of Ecclesiastes, revealing its conceptual framework and probing its reflections on human existence. Throughout, Marcus brings to bear his unique psychoanalytical perspective, enabling him to suggest new approaches to understanding this important biblical book.” - Lawrence H. Schiffman, Global Distinguished Professor of Hebrew and Judaic Studies, New York University